Key Dates
Please note the following dates for your diary.
5th August 2025
Launch Party - Applications Open.
31st October 2025
Applications Close.
Early December 2025
Interviews - If we require more information about your application, we may be in touch to request an interview in December.
Mid December 2025
Finalists Announced - Applicants whose entries have been accepted for the finals will be notified.
20th February 2026
Awards Gala Dinner at the Ashburton Aviation Museum.
Our Category Partners 2026
Welcome to our partners for ANZ Business of The Year 2026
The ANZ Business of The Year Awards for the Ashburton District endeavour to celebrate excellence and give our high achieving businesses a pat on the back for their creativity and passion.
Our Media Partners 2026
Our Categories
The award categories have been expanded for 2026, following feedback from the 109 entrants in the 2026 awards.
From innovation and sustainability to customer service and community impact, each category showcases inspiring stories of success and creativity. Whether you're a small startup or a large corporation, our awards celebrate businesses that push boundaries and set benchmarks.
Category winners and a supreme winner will be announced at the gala dinner on Friday 20th February 2026, at the aviation museum’s huge superhangar.
Service Partners
Thanks to our event service partners for their support
